What Is The Learning Curve?
The Future Is Now
The Learning Curve © Central Library is a high tech, high energy, hands-on information environment designed for today's children. From toddlers to teens, kids are growing up alongside an ever-changing world of technology and electronic media. In this fast-paced digital era, libraries are changing to keep pace with the dramatic advances in technology and the explosion of instant information. And, when it comes to information, library service to children must be responsive to the technology-driven world in which our children live. With the influx of electronic tools that enable our children to instantly "plug in" comes a tremendous opportunity to help young people become skilled information seekers and learners.
The advancements we have seen in the last few years have not just changed how children interact with and use information; they have set new standards for how children learn. Children must be able to effectively access, organize and analyze vast amounts of information, express ideas creatively and make connections that result in new knowledge. To accomplish any of this, of course, children need to be strong readers, good writers and insightful thinkers.
The Learning Curve © the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library is taking a leadership role in developing a new educational model for the informal teaching of information literacy skills. The Curve is an exciting learning laboratory where children can develop these vital skills as they explore, imagine and invent in a unique space designed just for them.
A High Tech Tool Box For Young Minds
Computers, iPods, digital games, cell phones, and the Internet - these inventions are the tools that our children use to communicate and inform themselves about the world. In the Learning Curve children have access to an entire "tool box" of high-tech resources: laptop computers, digital cameras, programmable robotics and a variety of multimedia software. Even traditional storytimes for younger children are enhanced by the magic of green-screen technology in the Make Believe Theater.
Through real and virtual activities kids have the opportunity to use technology in productive ways that reinforce basic information literacy skills. For example, using a computer, synthesizer and digital camera, kids can make their own digital books, songs, photos or videos. They can then share their creations on the plasma screen with other visitors in The Curve or add them to virtual CurveWorld "galleries".